Interpretation of Surface Electromyograms: The Spatial Localisation of Muscle Activity

Notwithstanding recent advances in the detection and processing techniques, a new critical issue is emerging in surface electromyography: the spatial localisation of muscle activity. This issue has direct impact on the estimation of muscle activity, normalisation, cross-talk and myoelectric fatigue, and therefore on the correct interpretation of surface electromyograms (EMGs). Inferences prompting from surface EMGs must therefore be drawn circumspectly. This report briefly introduces the spatial localisation issue and highlights its implication for the use and interpretation of surface EMGs.